The Mercedes-Benz 220 was based on a fortified 170 S chassis with a slightly wider track, and it was endowed with a brand-new, 2.2-litre, six-cylinder engine that could develop 80 horsepower at 4,600 rpm. Its performance and behaviour would ultimately establish the character of other Mercedes to follow. The 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 Coupé offered here has been the subject of a thorough restoration, and it is presented in very nice overall condition with an incredible history.

It was originally built for Dr Wilhelm Haspel, the CEO of Daimler-Benz A.G. who is credited with the rapid reconstruction of Mercedes following the war; this car was essentially the prototype for the 220 Coupés that would be produced several years later. After Haspel’s ownership, which presumably ended with his untimely death in 1952, at the age of 53, the car was acquired by a Lufthansa pilot who found the car in the United States and brought it back to Germany. It was later purchased from the pilot by Erhardt Bernot; the dating of correspondence in the file indicates that he owned it from at least 1976–2002, and possibly much longer. Over the course of those years, Bernot conducted an enormous amount of research, reaching out to Daimler-Benz on multiple occasions.

As a result of the notoriety of its original owner, it has rather unique features, including the dashboard, which, like on a 300 S, is constructed entirely of wood. After performing a full restoration in his spare time, Mr Bernot brought the car back to life; this restoration included the installation of a 230 engine to replace the damaged original unit.

The paint and bodywork have been properly refinished in a glossy black that is of a higher quality than it would have been 60 years ago. All chrome and brightwork have been re-plated, and little wear is evident on the handles and the more frequently utilised areas. Perhaps the most visually pleasing area of this Coupé is the very tidy and comfortable passenger compartment. All of the upholstery is in fine shape and it comes with articulating padded front seats that give way to the rear portion with the brilliant folding passenger/package shelf area. All of the outstanding wood-grained window frames and dash have been refinished to high standards. A full array of gauges, including oil pressure, temperature, and fuel quantity gauges, as well as a clock and a beautiful Becker radio, are splayed out for the driver’s updates and enjoyment. Soft materials, such as the carpets, floor mats, and headliner, also present in a nearly-new condition.

This Coupé has few needs for accessory equipment, as the detailed boot is well appointed. The spare tyre is accompanied by vintage jack and tyre changing tools. Dunlop Road Speed tyres are found on the car for a proper vintage appearance. Beneath the front bonnet, the engine compartment shows the same standards for restoration and preservation. Very little wear or soiling is present, indicating the care that Dr Haspel’s Coupé has received great care. This 220 is true one-off, and it is a fantastic opportunity to own a significant part of Mercedes-Benz history.